30 Sherwin Williams Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Sherwin Williams interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Table of Contents
- 1. Behavioral Questions
- 2. Career Goals Questions
- 3. Communication Questions
- 4. Compatibility Questions
- 5. Conflict Questions
- 6. Creative Thinking Questions
- 7. Customer Service Questions
- 8. Discovery Questions
- 9. Diversity Questions
- 10. EQ Questions
- 11. Leadership Questions
- 12. Performance Based Questions
- 13. Teamwork Questions
Behavioral
1. If you witnessed a co-worker doing something unethical, what would you do?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question is directed at determining whether your character is in line with Sherwin Williams' values. Keep in mind, most companies publish their code of conduct and ethics online in PDF format, which offers clues to the conduct they expect of their employees. And, they are often additionally spelled out in the core values, as it is in Sherwin Williams' case. "Our Values... Integrity! Our integrity shines through in our products, our business practices, and our relationships. We pride ourselves on keeping our promises to one another, to our customers and to our shareholders."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
What You Need to Know
To put it simply, HireVue is a service that helps clients avoid making bad hiring decisions by screening and categorizing candidates, ultimately finding top performers who align with company goals and culture. HireVue employs machine learning algorithms to analyze video interviews and predict job performance. The data will be assessed to determine a candidate's expertise, skills, personality, and integrity through verbal and non-verbal cues. In addition to AI assessment models, HireVue employs IO psychologists who use interview guides with behavioral questions and IO-validated content for candidate recruitment. They explain that their algorithms, when using this approach, can better evaluate candidates, identify top performers, and hire those who best match the company's goals and culture.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Tips
Your integrity will be evaluated by how honestly you answer this question, so be sincere. Non-verbal cues used by the assessment vendor to assess honesty include chin-stroking, mouth or eye covering, gaze avoidance, eye direction, fidgeting, frequent changes in body posture, and grooming behaviors.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
How to Prep
HireVue breaks a candidate's experience level into five categories: novice, developing, intermediate, advanced, and expert. According to their definition, a novice would be "willing to bend the rules to deliver in their job role." Someone of intermediate experience "consistently holds themselves accountable for making principled decisions when working to meet the demand." And lastly, an expert "addresses unethical behaviors when working to meet the demand."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"I am very ethically bound and have a lot of integrity, and have a zero-tolerance rule for theft, for example. If I saw an employee doing something unethical I would immediately report them to your store manager, along with following any guidelines, such as the company code of conduct."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
Behavioral
2. Tell me about yourself.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The purpose of this question is to break the ice by posing a casual question that is more likely to elicit an honest response. The way you express your personality matters, whether it's through live interviews or phone calls. These questions will help the algorithm assess your level of sincerity and self-honesty. It will evaluate how your genuine personality differs from your more reserved and performative answers. Although you're addressing the algorithm, try to envision conversing with a genuine individual. Make an effort to come across as laid-back as you can, speaking in a moderate yet enthusiastic voice. Keep your gaze fixed and wear a gentle smile. Aim to project confidence, poise, and a natural presence.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
What You Need to Know
HireVue explains that their "talent experience platform" simplifies hiring and improves client recruitment through better talent engagement, screening, and hiring. Their products and services claim to navigate "the ebbs and flows of the hiring landscape," boosting company growth, reducing turnover, and optimizing the hiring of top talent, all while saving clients money and time.
The main aspect of HireVue is its utilization of proprietary machine learning algorithms to assess video interviews and make predictions about future job performance. They'll use data points to evaluate a candidate's expertise, skills, personality, and integrity by analyzing verbal and non-verbal cues. "Candidate insights reports" are then created by the algorithm using the compiled information.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Pro Tip
Always study the culture statements and the branding language of the company's site. You'll find clues to the image they aim to project, which in turn reveals the type of talent they are looking to recruit. For example, "Let Your Colors Show! It's all here for you. Let's create your possible."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
How to Answer
Here are some other words you can use to describe your personality without using overused keywords:
- Adaptable
- Balanced
- Capable
- Disciplined
- Eloquent
- Flexible
Written by Samantha Brown on March 28th, 2024
Entry Level Example
"I grew up in a small town, and I was lucky to have a lot of friends and a large support group. My parents were always very supportive of my passions and pursuits, and I just enrolled in college to pursue a degree in interior design. I am also very interested in home renovation and had quite a few summer jobs working with my uncle, who is an independent contractor. I love being in a Sherwin Williams store and have always felt at home there. So this felt like the perfect college job for me. I would describe my personality as approachable, light-hearted, and positive. I believe that, if asked, my references would say the same about me."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
Career Goals
3. What made did you decide to apply at Sherwin Williams?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Most companies will want to know you have an interest in their company as to the reason why you applied there. Typically, they want a response that relates to them directly. For example, Sherwin Williams states that they are honored to be recognized as an industry innovator and top employer, and they proudly display their recent awards on their website. This includes several awards, from Forbes, Newsweek, Fortune 500, Wall Street Journal, LinkedIn, among others.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
What You Need to Know
This question provides a wider lens on your career aspirations, centering on your preferences for an employer or work environment. The assessment vendor will use your answer to this question to gauge your confidence and reasons for pursuing this opportunity. Your answer will indicate if you have ambitious goals for this position or if you're simply looking for any job.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Tips
Throughout your interview, you want to take into consideration how HireVue's behavioral assessment model may interpret (or misinterpret) any verbal and non-verbal cues. Moreover, don't forget that the recruiter will probably assess your prerecorded interview, so it's crucial to make a good impression. Make sure your lighting is balanced and keep eye contact with the camera, as if you're having a face-to-face conversation. Make sure the camera is at eye level. If it's positioned too low, it might make you seem arrogant or autocratic. When the camera is positioned too high and pointed down at you, it can make you seem weak or small. Also, find a spot with natural lighting and ensure that the light is evenly distributed on your face. Direct your gaze towards the lens instead of looking at yourself on the screen. By taking this step, you can ensure that the algorithm doesn't misinterpret your response.
HireVue's assessment model heavily depends on facial recognition to evaluate non-verbal cues in addition to your words and delivery. If it cannot visually analyze you, its findings may come back as inconclusive, and it may disregard you as a candidate. HireVue repeatedly warns against being backlit, which is likely the reason behind their suggestion. "Lighting from behind makes it hard to see you. Just be natural! Get comfortable and be confident in yourself." So, help the algorithm do its job.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Experienced Example
"I have worked as a professional painter for thirty years and have always used Sherwin Williams' paints. I heard Sherwin Williams promotes from within and it's very likely you can be a store manager within five to ten years. I just sold my business, which was a lot of work, and wanted to get back to enjoying my work, and not grinding down and burning out on it. I am looking to stay in the painting industry and thought your store would be a perfect fit for me. I think I will be a great asset to your company and your customers, as I should be able to help your customers find exactly what they are looking for. I can even give my humble recommendations based on my personal experience. I think working for your store and your company will be an amazing growing experience for me and my career goals, and I would have a great deal to contribute as well."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
Career Goals
4. Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question will serve as another indicator of whether you will contribute to their employee retention rates, or would contribute to further attrition. They are looking for long-term employees who are interested in pursuing "Career Path Options: No matter where you are on your career journey, we have opportunities for all levels across our global business. Our Global Businesses: Our diverse business offers endless opportunities and is the reason so many employees choose to stay and grow their career at Sherwin-Williams."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
What You Need to Know
When interviewing, it's crucial to highlight a diligent work ethic, effective planning skills, and ensure your answers are actionable. Get in the right mindset and give yourself some time to get prepared. Enter the virtual interview room and verify that everything is functioning properly. Make sure to test the webcam, sound, and lighting before your interview. Make sure you have a strong Wi-Fi signal. Verify that your microphone is working as it should. Make sure to shut down any browsers or applications that are not necessary. Put your phone on silent and prepare. Don't forget to use the restroom before your interview. Keep a glass of water nearby in case you need it. Make sure you have all your other materials within arm's reach.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Experienced Example
"I would love to be a manager in the next five years. This would be a great career advancement for me and one of the reasons why I applied for your open position. Passing the milestones I've set out in my five-year career plan seems attainable through your development programs, which is largely what attracted me to this role and your company culture."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
Career Goals
5. If you could start your career over again, what direction would you take?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
A hiring manager will be able to tell a lot about your personality by learning about your other career interests, and how well they align with the field you are in. For example, if you chose a completely unrelated career path, that might be an indicator you would quickly burn out on the job or are just waiting until something better comes along. Also, keep in mind that one of their core values is "Growth. Our growth is essential to our business. To grow in knowledge and character as well as in size was an early guiding principle. We are committed to growth that is disciplined and sustainable, intended to benefit our shareholders, customers and employees." So a more desirable candidate will be someone who is interested in growing with the company, rather than someone taking what they need and moving on after a short period.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
What You Need to Know
According to HireVue, "Virtual interviewing is similar to the video calls many of us have been using. You will use a computer, tablet, or mobile device to answer questions created by the company for the position you are applying for. Maximize your comfort level and share your experiences and skills as naturally as possible. This is an opportunity to share your story as a candidate. All candidates applying to a position will receive the same set of questions, selected by the hiring company. Additionally, HireVue takes measures to prevent candidates from seeing these interview questions before they interview. These measures ensure that each candidate has the same amount of time to review the questions, and prepare their responses, giving all candidates the same interview experience and an equal shot at putting their best foot forward."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"If I had to start my career over again, I would take the same direction! Working in this industry has been incredibly fulfilling for me, and I have zero regrets about the path my career has taken me. I certainly do not regret the direction I have taken my career. I used to think if I had to start over in a new direction completely, I would likely pursue my degree in education and become a teacher. Both of my parents were teachers, and they seemed to have a very fulfilling career. But I have come to realize I enjoy coaching and leading others, and leading and mentoring fulfills those old desires, and I am very happy in my current career as a result."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
Career Goals
6. How would being hired by Sherwin Williams impact your long-term career plans?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Any interviewer wants to hire candidates with a long-term vision for themselves. So, they want to know whether you are looking for any job anywhere, or if your goals specifically align with what they have to offer. For many, it is the opportunity for career advancement. Sherwin Williams understands this and advertises the opportunities they offer in their recruitment marketing. "Employee Engagement. We provide our people with opportunities to learn, grow and be recognized for their achievements. And - we're committed to investing in our people by providing learning, employee networking, progression and engagement opportunities, to help them excel in their current and future roles."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
What You Need to Know
The recruiters will be forwarded the compiled information depending on the HireVue package they have chosen. Some prefer prescreening which the algorithm forwards candidates it deems as potential top performers, while others only want the recorded videos. Upon receiving the materials, the hiring authority can compare and evaluate the interviews side by side.
Customizable interview guides created by IO psychology research teams are used in the assessment model to ask the right questions and measure responses for predicting job performance and identifying key skills and characteristics for success in a specific job. By using their customizations, they are able to recognize the most talented performers and the least promising. It is claimed by HireVue that they can adapt assessment interviews to specific roles, featuring well-defined performance indicators. The interview builder from HireVue scores a candidate's experience level and divides it into five groups: novice, developing, intermediate, advanced, and expert.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
1st Answer Example
"I believe a career at Sherwin Williams will really impact my future in a great way. Their management training program is what initially attracted me to the company. I have always thought of myself as a leader, and the experience I can gain at Sherwin Williams will really help me excel in my career and open up to future leadership roles."
Written by Ryan Brown
2nd Answer Example
"I would love the opportunity to work at Sherwin Williams for the long term; eventually growing into a management position. I see that many of your management-level employees started in entry-level roles. I appreciate that you promote from within, whenever possible."
Written by Ryan Brown
Career Goals
7. You've had a number of job changes in a short period of time. Can you briefly talk about that with us?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Most hiring managers will consider more than two jobs in the past five years to be frequent movement. Take some time to explain your career progression to the interviewer. Be sure to avoid speaking poorly of your previous employers. This question is not the time to ramble on about how your former company did you wrong. The only appropriate answer is a short and sweet one. Also, showcase what you learned from your experiences, how you have grown, that you are a bridge builder, and how you have a clear vision of where you want to take your career next.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
What You Need to Know
You'll have roughly 20-30 seconds to get ready for your response when a question is posed. The maximum time for each response is around three minutes. You can only record your answers once. There's no opportunity for do-overs. Take your time and don't feel rushed to answer questions that may require more thought. Don't attempt to lengthen your response either. Keep it brief.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
1st Answer Example
"Leaving Company X was due to a merger, and my role was eliminated. Company Y was a seasonal role, and I am now looking for a new position because my contract with Company Z is complete this March."
Written by Ryan Brown
2nd Answer Example
"I have had a couple of positions in the past that I took too quickly, and should have researched further. I am much more selective in my job search this time. I appreciate what Sherwin Williams stands for, and I see a long-term fit here."
Written by Ryan Brown
Communication
8. Tell us about a time you disagreed with a coworker. Describe the situation, your approach, and the outcome.
How to Answer
Share a time when you didn't see eye to eye with a coworker, and how your sense of teamwork, communication, and dedication showcased your commitment. These are the qualities Sherwin Williams states they celebrate their people for. "Teamwork, purpose and passion. Many companies pay lip service to these ideals. We're committed to fostering a supportive work environment where every team member can feel their best."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
What You Need to Know
When telling your story, show how you embody their communication values and behaviors. Aim to demonstrate your emotional maturity, which led to a successful result. Find a posture that is both relaxed and comfortable. Focus on the positives. Ensure that your verbal and non-verbal cues align with each other. To express empathy nonverbally, tilt your head slightly, nod slowly, keep your palms open, maintain eye contact, smile softly, and raise your eyebrows a little.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"I worked with a team some time ago who always wanted to cut corners. The work standard was low, and our manager was somewhat hands-off, enabling this unethical work standard. Well, I pride myself on my integrity, and it is a mark of pride to put out great work. So, last year when our manager went away on vacation for three weeks, some of my co-workers wanted to falsify our time sheets to reflect overtime hours that we did not work. I disagreed and was unable to convince them that it was a bad idea and certainly not worth being fired over. So I was alone, and suffered a bit of retribution, especially when I brought it to my manager's attention, and he didn't address the situation, further enabling the behavior. So, I ended up leaving that position because I was unhappy with the low standard of work expected of me."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
Compatibility
9. What do you know about Sherwin Williams?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Approach your research as if you are getting a head start on your onboarding and orientation. This will showcase your passion for the job. There is plenty of information on their website which will aid you in answering this question. Sherwin Williams operates over 4,000 retail locations, and they share their detailed "colorful" history on their website. "Founded in 1866, our company has spent the last 155 years creating a legacy of growth, creativity and innovation to meet the needs of our dedicated workforce and our growing global customer base."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
What You Need to Know
Once the recruiters have been sent the compiled HireVue video assessment materials, they can start comparing and evaluating the interviews side by side. Your ultimate objective is to provide an interview that the algorithm will send to the recruiter for later review. Once you are familiar with their description of their workforce, think about how you can genuinely present yourself as their ideal match.
"Video-based assessments evaluate both what you know about performing the job ('hard skills' or competencies) and what recruiters call 'soft' competencies, like communication skills, conscientiousness, problem-solving skills, team orientation, and initiative. The competencies in your video assessment are based on research by organizational psychologists about the skills and characteristics that are most important for success in that particular job role. The best thing you can do is to carefully study the job description and be sure that you have examples and real experience behind you to 'show what you know' about doing that job well."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"Your company was founded in 1866 and has done nothing but grow in the right direction since then. Creativity is at the heart of the company, which offers superior paint products that attract contractors and professionals to choose your paint over the big retail locations. Everything feels personalized. The convenience of your retail locations and the premium paint products you sell outweigh the cheaper costs of the big box retail locations. As a person who has painted for several years, I would always purchase Sherwin Williams because I know it's a one-coat application and a better product than the products found elsewhere."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
Compatibility
10. What issues are important to you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question is aimed at determining how aligned your values are with theirs, and the causes they support, from sustainability goals, giving back to the community, and philanthropy. The more aligned you are with their culture, the better the fit into their teams.
"Making a difference in and for our communities, supporting causes and charitable organizations important to our employees, communities, customers and stakeholders around the world, is part of the proud Sherwin-Williams legacy. Led by The Sherwin-Williams Foundation, and supported by our employees, we prioritize support for access to safe and healthy housing, advancing a skilled workforce that sustains inclusive, vibrant communities, beautifying and preserving assets around the world. Amplifying the contributions of employees through significant investments in matching gifts and providing tools to ensure they can easily connect with and support those causes most important to them remains a hallmark of our matching gifts program."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
What You Need to Know
The flexibility to interview anytime and anywhere is one of the advantages offered by HireVue. Give yourself enough time to get everything ready. Approach being on camera like a face-to-face interview and maintain a professional image in every aspect. Wear suitable professional clothing for the job, as the algorithm looks for neatness and professionalism. HireVue even recommends "you wear exactly what you would for a traditional face-to-face interview. It may feel a little different to put on your Sunday best for your kitchen table, but hey, at least you won't have to get it pressed again after this, right?"
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Experienced Example
"I am passionate about air pollution. But not just outdoor air pollution, but indoor air pollution as well. This is one thing I love about Sherwin Williams, their efforts to make most of their paints very low in volatile organic compounds and indoor air pollutants. I believe there is a lot at stake for homeowners when choosing a paint, especially one that minimizes toxins. If a customer chooses a zero VOC paint, they will reduce the number of harmful chemicals found in the air that they will be breathing in. This is a win-win for both Sherwin and their customers. I am happy to know that Sherwin Williams offers a variety of painting options that are healthier for humans. Such as their Harmony Interior paints. Of course, not all customers may be interested in knowing about the chemicals in their paint, but it's good knowledge to present to a customer in case that is something of concern to them."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
Compatibility
11. Why should Sherwin Williams hire you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question is aimed at assessing how familiar you are with the company and the type of people they aim to recruit and employ. For example, in the values they focus on their "people. Our people are our foundation, which is why we are committed to providing safe and healthy work environments, and opportunities to learn, grow and be recognized for their many achievements."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
What You Need to Know
Dedicate time to meditate on your thoughts and the best way to express them. The algorithm will assess your communication skills. Be mindful of the words you choose and their hidden meanings. Use positives instead of negatives when possible. Speak at a steady pace and refrain from rushing. Rapid speech can create the perception of nervousness. If you speak slower, you'll come across as relaxed. Ensure clear articulation and minimize stammering or long pauses. If you sound too rehearsed, it can come across as lacking passion and inspiration. Stay alert for any verbal tics and strive for a professional-sounding delivery.
HireVue's AI assessment models evaluate your message's content, meaning, and emotion, while also assessing your service orientation, responsibility, and ability to uphold their reputation. Your empathy, impulse control, and communication skills will be measured. Opt for professional adjectives to describe yourself and your situation. Make sure to incorporate their language naturally in your responses, when it fits. This conveys your evaluation of them as a potential ideal match and your respect for their culture and values.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"I initially saw your job posting on LinkedIn and liked and followed it. I have always been a fan of your organization, tuning into your radio commercials and advertisements on Facebook. After seeing and reading several of your posts, I started reading more about the company on your website and elsewhere, following on social media. I have had my eye on your organization for some time now, which eventually led to keeping an auto-alert on Indeed for new job postings with Sherwin Williams. The right job came along, and everything feels like a good fit. These reasons and more, I think, make me a good fit for Sherwin Williams, which is why I believe they should seriously consider me for the new position."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
Compatibility
12. Name at least three major brands we own at Sherwin Williams.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It's always recommended you research the company beforehand, so you can speak of these little details in an interview. It will reflect your passion for landing the job. For example, over the years, Sherwin has added quite a few products to their existing lineup, and not long ago made a large purchase of Valspar, which made headlines. Some of their other brands are Minwax, Cabot, Purdy, Thompson's WaterSeal, DutchBoy, and Krylon, to name a few.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
What You Need to Know
According to HireVue, they can customize assessment interviews for specific positions, complete with clear performance metrics. Their assessment models can accurately identify the most talented performers and the least promising ones through personalized adjustments. The interview guides assist the assessment model in asking the appropriate questions to obtain measurable responses, enabling the prediction of job performance and identification of crucial skills and traits for success in a specific role, as well as objectives and culture.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"I know Sherwin owns many different brands in the painting and sealer industry. Some of them are Purdy, Minwax, and Dutch Boy. Then there's Thompson's Waterseal, Valspar, Pratt & Lambert, Frazee, and more. I am impressed at how large of holdings they have in the painting industry."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
Compatibility
13. In your opinion, what sets us apart?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Go into your interview with a full understanding of why Sherwin Williams is a top choice for painting supplies. Go to their website and check out any recent news, press releases, announcements, or awards/accolades they have recently achieved. Also, examine how they distinguish themselves according to their values. "Our quality is a consistent element of our products and our work. With a strong commitment to continuous improvement, we challenge ourselves to set the industry standard for excellence in colors, products and coatings that preserve, protect and beautify." Keep your answer brief and decisive.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
What You Need to Know
The customizable interview guides, created by their IO psychology research teams, are used by the assessment model to ask the right questions and measure responses for predicting job performance and identifying key skills and characteristics for success in a specific job. Through their customizations, they can differentiate between the most skilled performers and the least promising ones. According to HireVue, they have the capability to personalize assessment interviews for specific positions, complete with distinct performance benchmarks. HireVue's interview builder then sorts a candidate's experience level into one of five groups: novice, developing, intermediate, advanced, and expert.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"I used to live in Cleveland, Ohio (home of Sherwin Williams) and their retail locations kept popping up across the suburbs and outskirt towns of Northeast Ohio. I wondered how Sherwin Williams competed against the likes of Lowes, Menards, and Home Depot. But they were my preferred destination, so I realized they must be for contractors and professional painters as well. Even with the costs being typically higher than that of a box store. One could conclude that professionals must find their paint to be superior to those of a box store. Also, the convenience of a phone call to a Sherwin Williams employer, a person who will probably be familiar to your own product needs and will have your paint supplies ready to go when requested, is a huge perk. So, what sets Sherwin Williams apart from the others in the painting industry? The fact that you have won so many awards for the best painting products. Sherwin Williams paints are clearly the best in the industry. Although Glidden and Behr have some pretty respectable products, I believe Sherwin's paints are superior. I would be proud to work here over any of your competitors. Sherwin Williams is doing a great job!"
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
Conflict
14. Tell us about a time you had to deal with conflict at work? How did you handle that conflict? What was the outcome?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When recounting an issue with a team member, carefully consider the nuances of this question. It doesn't imply any personal issues between you and your team member. It could insinuate an issue between two other members of your team, where you effectively solved the problem. So, demonstrate your interpersonal skills by openly accepting and treating all team members equally and with compassion. Detail how you analyzed the situation while displaying emotional maturity. Highlight the positives and how the team was ultimately benefited by the outcome.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
What You Need to Know
The assessment model will evaluate your conflict resolution skills with this question. Your reply should showcase your skill in effectively managing and resolving situations, with emotional intelligence and professionalism, without exacerbating them.
It's not unusual for emotions to resurface when someone recalls a conflict. Therefore, your behavior will be evaluated for defensive signals by the assessment vendor's algorithm. Therefore, it's crucial to maintain emotional maturity when reflecting on that conflict, instead of reverting back to the same emotions. Avoid body language that could be misinterpreted as insecure, closed-off, unapproachable, hostile, or disinterested. Although projecting strength might appear advantageous, authentic strength originates internally. The aim is to project confidence and tranquility.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Stay Away From
When sharing such an example, never point fingers or assign fault. Doing so will only suggest you contributed to the conflict.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"I always remind myself to keep a level head, hear all sides of the story whenever possible, and remove myself from any situation that becomes heated. My coworker and I had a misunderstanding about the schedule. We both got frustrated, so I took a step back and asked if we could talk about it when we were both calm; so the tension didn't escalate. The next day, I pulled him aside and asked if we could talk. We both shared our sides of the story and realized it was just a miscommunication."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
Creative Thinking
15. Tell us about a time you improved upon an existing process or system.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question is designed to evaluate your level of skill. Your response will also reveal your work ethic. Your dedication and confidence will be reflected in your practice and experience. Take a moment to think about your skills and the times when you excelled the most before your interview. Evaluate their values and observe how well they match up. For example, one of Sherwin Williams' values is Innovation. "Our innovation ensures that our customers will be the first to benefit from pioneering advancements in products, coatings and their applications. Innovation is encouraged through challenging assumptions and by leveraging our collective ingenuity and imagination for new ideas and inspiration."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
What You Need to Know
HireVue, assesses data points in the recorded videos to identify the top performers and those most suited to the company's goals and culture. Each assessment model is customized "for a specific job role after following these critical steps: Ensure that there is a clear performance indicator for the job role that differentiates the strongest from the least promising performers. Ask the right questions to elicit responses that can be measured and that are pertinent to predicting job performance based on IO psychology research. Train the model to notice everything relevant in the interview (what someone says and how they say it), and build a model that uses only the data points that help predict success in the job."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Pro Tip
As previously mentioned, HireVue's interview builder categorizes a candidate's experience level into five groups: novice, developing, intermediate, advanced, and expert. If someone has "limited capacity but is likely to be dependable in simple situations," they would be classified as a novice in this scenario. Those with intermediate skills are "likely to be dependable but need assistance in more difficult situations." And, an expert is someone who "takes pride in delivering a high-quality output of work, views change as a challenge and an opportunity to advance toward mutual goals."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"I created a new training manual for our labor employees last year. It included safety tips, training suggestions, and how-tos. Our employees appreciated having the resource, and I enjoyed creating it! This also impressed my supervisor, who then challenged me with taking our existing sales training package and improving it. So, my goal was to make the system more engaging for recruits. Once we implemented my ideas, we increased our new trainee retention rate by 16%. I was quite proud of what my creativity could do!"
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
Customer Service
16. Tell me about a time you had to deal with multiple priorities simultaneously? What was the situation? How did you manage it? What was the result?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Meeting the needs of various priorities can pose a challenge. While these situations may appear daunting initially, your response could reveal your ability to handle stress, think on your feet, and demonstrate exceptional service, teamwork, and productivity. Reflect on instances in your current or past jobs where you demonstrated exceptional performance in similar scenarios.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
What You Need to Know
When answering, follow the STAR method for clear and effective communication and to avoid rambling. Address each answer by first offering the SITUATION involved with your example. Then move into the TASK this situation required. Then share the ACTION you took and the RESULT of your actions. By adopting this approach, you can guarantee clarity and consistency in your interview, keep your answers concise, and meet the algorithm's requirements to advance to the recruiter.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Pro Tip
This question assesses your ability to adapt and find creative solutions when plans go awry. The assessment vendor will analyze your responses to see how you handle stress and if it impacts your behavior, responses, and decision-making.
With this question, HireVue's interview builder would score someone as a novice if they were unable to "adjust their behavior as required to meet the demands of the situation, and require a supervisor or manager to make the necessary changes." Whereas someone they consider an expert "possesses a positive attitude, shares their vision, inspires others, is a role model, and quickly modifies their plans accordingly."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Experienced Example
"I rarely had this scenario happen at my last job at the hardware store. But recently our shipment arrived late, and we couldn't park the pallets in the store during store hours, so we had to drop them out back, but had to constantly monitor them to avoid theft. Yet, too often I had to leave my manager waiting out back in the cold. All I could do was give my full attention to the customer at hand, and the customers waiting will wait until their turn. It's important to give your full attention to the customer you are currently taking care of. I know if I was a customer purchasing paints, I would want the respect and full attention of the professional at hand to best guide me on the products that I was purchasing. I reached out to my manager when I could, and they of course were happy I was prioritizing the customer. But they weren't happy shivering out in the cold. You try to make everyone happy, and sometimes the only way to do that is by doing your best."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
Customer Service
17. Tell us about a time you engaged with a challenging customer. What was the situation? How did you handle it? What was the outcome?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Balancing the needs of multiple customers can be a challenge, especially when delivering nonstop excellent customer service, which can sometimes be draining, especially when leading up to, or after, dealing with, a particularly challenging customer. Discuss with the interviewer how you ensure that everyone feels validated, empathized with, and listened to. Assure them that you give your full attention to the customer at hand and the customers in line who may patiently wait for your attention. Showcase that your standard of service is consistent, regardless of the situation. Detail how you never hurry through a customer, just to get to the next customer in line, and how your mode of customer service is in line with Sherwin Williams' values. "Relationships with Customers. Customers are to be treated with honesty, fairness, and respect. You are responsible for your role in maintaining the high standard of quality service provided to our customers."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
What You Need to Know
Companies can utilize pre-set interview guides on HireVue's platform. Each guide contains organized questions that can be customized for any company's unique requirements by choosing from various categories. The usual format is as follows: "Tell me about a time when you faced this situation. Explain the steps you took? What was the outcome?" Subsequently, the algorithm will create "candidates insights reports" from this information. For example, they state, "Common types of questions you'll see in a video-based assessment are situational judgment questions. You'll be asked what actions to take when confronted with a hypothetical situation."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Pro Tip
This question seeks to assess your performance under high-pressure, potentially stressful situations. HireVue's rating systems indicate that novices are prone to task paralysis, procrastination, and hesitancy in time-sensitive situations, as they fear making mistakes and doubt their capabilities. On the other hand, an expert will demonstrate resourcefulness and decisiveness, making informed choices and taking calculated risks.
If you aim to be recognized as an expert in HireVue's proficiency rating system, it's crucial to demonstrate emotional intelligence and the ability to handle high-pressure situations. Think quickly on your feet. Overcome challenges. Lead by example. Create a sense of urgency with a positive can-do attitude.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Experienced Example
"I recently had a customer come into our hardware store who was upset with the number of coats they had to apply, half expecting to have to only apply one coat. I empathized with them, listened, and asked the customer what they were painting. It was a rental property that had dark blue painted walls that they now wanted white. I again empathized with them, and explained when purchasing a lower-quality can of paint, it can take a few coats to apply the paint. Resulting in fewer savings. With a better paint, you get a better finish and a paint that will hold up longer than the cheaper paints. With a premium paint, they'd find the color lasting longer. Walls with a premium paint applied to them have a better ability to clean up than walls with a cheaper paint. So, they thanked me, and expressed they'd listened to our initial recommendation."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
Customer Service
18. Tell us about a time you went above and beyond for a customer? What was the situation? What actions did you take? What was the outcome?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question is aimed at how akin your approach to customer service aligns with their philosophy and values. "Our service is exemplary, personal and professional, accompanied by the strongest product knowledge and supply chain in our industry, providing our customers with confidence in our products and coatings solutions." How you answer will serve to inform them of how informed you are and how capably you would be able to represent their company, their brand, and their range of products.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
What You Need to Know
Aim to have their attention centered on you, not on what's around you. Double-check that your interview location is well-organized, tidy, distraction-free, and has a simple background before proceeding. When talking about your organizational abilities, you should use words that reflect your professionalism, work ethic, and organizational skills. After all, your professionalism and work ethic are reflected in how organized your personal space is.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"My relationships with my customers always come first. It certainly can be a juggling act to keep all your customers happy all the time. I am kind and patient, and am always clear and transparent. Yet, situations come up and all you can do is your best to make them happy. At one point though we ran into an issue with one of our vendors and for a few weeks had difficulty keeping our store stocked on our more affordable brands. And there was nothing we could do to bring down the costs of the other products we did have in stock. And at the price that our customers have come to expect. So I took my usual approach of always being honest. But on several occasions, I was unable to meet the needs of our customers. But I listened, empathized, and took down a lot of phone numbers. Then when the product finally came in, I spent over an hour calling all of them to inform them their favorite product was back in stock."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
Discovery
19. What is your favorite color?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question is framed as a more fun question, which also gives you an opportunity to align yourself with their culture. So have fun with it. Color is obviously a huge part of how they define themselves as a company. With the large library of specialty colors of paints, it offers you the opportunity to be creative with your answer.
"We inspire and improve the world by coloring and protecting what matters. Our paints, coatings and innovative solutions make the places and spaces in our world brighter and stronger. Your skills, talent and passion make it possible to live our purpose, and for our customers and business to achieve great results."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
What You Need to Know
HireVue provides practice questions on their website to help you get ready for their process. "While virtual interviewing isn't difficult, a little practice can help you prepare. Most on-demand interviews ask you to give your answer in just a few minutes. It's helpful to think about how you will illustrate your skills clearly in that timeframe, and to practice them out loud."
Get ready for the interview by learning the body language of a confident and relaxed person. Enhance your confidence by involving yourself in physical activity beforehand. Find a calm place, face a mirror, and motivate yourself with a pep talk. Lift your arms, release tension in your back, and enhance your posture. Practice your answers and record your voice to become more comfortable in front of the camera. When practicing in front of your computer's camera, don't look at yourself on the screen. Instead, maintain eye contact with the lens as if you're speaking directly to someone. Share your unique contributions with conviction. Repeat the practice until you reach a level of comfort, remaining calm and coming across as natural.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"I would say my favorite color is Charcoal Blue. It is something of a dark blue, with a gray undertone which shows up very nicely in western exposure lighting."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
Discovery
20. What do you like to do in your spare time?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When sharing or expressing your personal interests outside of work, you want to portray yourself as relatable, balanced, and memorable. It is up to you whether you want to convey your interest in home improvement outside of work as well, or in other interests. However, your focus should be on how balanced your personal life is with your professional life.
Sherwin Williams invests in the well-being of their employees, to promote their work-life balance, which in turn helps promote job satisfaction and employee retention. "Our total rewards offerings support the diverse and unique needs of employees and their families, in and out of work. Life is more than the time we spend at a paint store counter, an assembly line, in front of a computer screen, or behind the wheel of a delivery truck. It's also attending a concert with your friends, taking your family to dinner or going to the gym for your daily workout. We understand your work is more than a paycheck. For all that you do, we provide additional rewards that support your total well-being, physically, financially, emotionally and socially. Whether you're looking to live healthier, save smarter or feel better, we have the programs and resources you need to plan for the future and care for what matters."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
What You Need to Know
HireVue's interview questions focus on situation judgment, asking about your experiences, actions, and outcomes to assess your job knowledge, competencies, and hard skills. Your response should showcase your soft skills, such as emotional intelligence, communication, empathy, resourcefulness, teamwork, and initiative.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Experienced Example
"I love hanging out with my father. He purchases houses, renovates them, and flips them. While I do not have any remodeling experience, he does, and I help where I can, but it is basically an excuse to hang out, drink beer, and is our version of going fishing. I have remodeled over five houses with my father. So I am quite familiar with all of your painting products, and on the weekends, in a way, I am not only hanging out with my father, but also with Sherwin Williams."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
Diversity
21. How do you feel about working with a diverse group of people from varying backgrounds?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Sherwin Williams serves a large customer base, customers who may be professional painters, contractors, or even a local homeowner looking to complete their first painting project in twenty years, all from varying professions, backgrounds, and walks of life. Their diversity, equality, and inclusion efforts are woven throughout their company statements, values, and culture. From their core value of "connection" to defining theirs as "a culture that's built for everyone," they need assurances you will be able to work among diverse teams while serving their diverse customer base.
"We are a diverse and talented group of employees with unique perspectives and experiences, who care for each other and the community. Our commitment and passion extend beyond our customers. We support the communities where we live and work to create a sustainable culture for all. We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion, where our differences are welcomed, appreciated and celebrated."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
What You Need to Know
HireVue asserts that their AI technology is specifically developed to recognize and mitigate bias. Their goal is to assist clients in forming teams that include diverse backgrounds, knowledge, experiences, and perspectives. Regardless of your background, the assessment model evaluates how you view and embrace diversity, equality, and inclusion in the workplace.
Demonstrating cultural competence involves seeming interested, open, and curious. Nonverbal indicators like leaning in, tilting your head, smiling, and making eye contact can express these emotions. Negative bias and antipathy may be indicated by signs of discomfort and avoidance. Nonverbal cues consist of decreased positivity, limited eye contact, more gaze aversion, less smiling, increased interpersonal distance, and heightened blinking. Keep in mind these aspects when formulating your response.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"My family environment and upbringing have always been immersively diverse. I would feel more comfortable working in a diverse environment than not. I love being around all people, regardless of your culture, background, or profession. Everyone is different, but their interest in what Sherwin Williams has to offer is what they all have in common."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 13th, 2024
EQ
22. How do you go about building trust with your teams?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
"We are proud of our performance-based, results-oriented culture. As employees, we must perform our roles and responsibilities to meet the desired results in a transparent and ethical manner. Setting an example for others is encouraged, recognized and rewarded."
Most Sherwin Williams locations only have a few employees working at the store at any given time. Therefore, it's crucial the company can trust their employees to run their stores properly. Describe a time when you showed a great amount of trust to your previous employer.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
What You Need to Know
The findings from AI assessment models will be categorized in multiple ways. The algorithm will analyze the candidate's traits such as composure, compassion, dependability, adaptability, willingness to learn, drive for results, initiative, and safety and compliance. How effectively a candidate can work with a team falls under one category. Additionally, it assesses their ability to build relationships, collaborate, and invest in the development of coworkers and teams.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"I am very reliable, and I work hard, am helpful whenever I can be, and trust is earned. In fact, at the hardware store I worked at, I was a key-holder to the store, and was entrusted with opening and closing the store, and with cash handling and combination to the safe. Honesty is fundamental to integrity, and I was raised to be a truthful and transparent person at all times."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 13th, 2024
EQ
23. What is your greatest strength and weakness?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question goes beyond your experience with painting and customer service. This speaks to your professional experience level and your self-awareness. They want to know whether you take charge of your own professional development, and where you believe you are currently at in your career growth. Your awareness of how far you have come will coincide with where you feel you have yet to go. Highlight your strong desire to learn, grow, and develop your skills. If you can correlate this with where you hope that Sherwin Williams can further your career, all the better.
"At Sherwin-Williams, we are a place that takes its stability, growth and momentum and translates it to possibility for our people. Our people are behind the strength of our success. When you embark on a career at Sherwin-Williams, we invest and support you in life + career + connection."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
What You Need to Know
HireVue's assessment model will analyze your verbal and non-verbal cues to evaluate your conviction, honesty, confidence, and the underlying message of your answer. Be honest and match your strengths with the strengths they value in their employees.
"Because HireVue is not directly involved in the hiring process, the company you applied to will follow up with you about their hiring decision or any next steps after you complete your interview." HireVue only aids in screening "unqualified candidates" from "top performers" and records your answers for a representative of the company to later evaluate.
The hiring manager compares recorded interviews of similar caliber candidates, and it's up to the recruiter to decide if they'll follow the algorithm's suggestions.
HireVue's interview builder defines a novice as someone who lacks curiosity in understanding the need for change. A person with an intermediate skill level or above in a particular category is someone who takes ownership of their setbacks, acknowledges their weaknesses, makes necessary adjustments, and admits to their mistakes. Instead of perceiving areas with room for improvement as weaknesses or debilitations, someone more experienced sees them as opportunities for growth. Someone who embraces a chance for personal growth is unafraid to share it, demonstrating their strength.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"I would say that my artistic knowledge about paint is a strength. Growing up, painting was one of my favorite things to do at home. My mom would routinely want to switch up wall colors and we worked on those projects together. I really enjoy painting and have a respectable knowledge of all the finishes and the differences between latex and oil-based paints, and the more volume solids in its composition, the better the paint. However, I would say a weakness of mine is that I have little experience in home repair projects. But I plan on buying a home in five years and would love to have a more comprehensive understanding of all our various products outside of paint. I learn fast, which is another strength."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 13th, 2024
EQ
24. Talk about a time you received critical feedback from a leader or peer. Describe the situation, how you felt about it, and your response.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Every manager has a different approach to giving feedback. Some prefer to save it for the performance review while others dish it out on the regular. Your response to feedback is much more important than the input itself. Even if it was negative, if you can take it as constructive criticism, you can improve yourself and your skills.
Written by Ryan Brown
What You Need to Know
Ensure that your response conveys a genuine and heartfelt tone. Emphasize the positives and highlight the team's overall benefit from the outcome. Provide an unbiased account of the situation, demonstrating emotional maturity. Ensure you are relaxed and comfortable, and detach yourself from the emotions you experienced before. Embrace the emotional state you want to convey. If you are unable to separate yourself emotionally from the example and observe it objectively, think of an alternate one.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Experienced Example
"Every performance review, in my previous position, was very positive. I like to achieve greatness in everything that I do, and my manager appreciated that. Growth opportunities I was presented with came with that understanding. For example, my manager told me that I was spending too much time on the details of a project. They realized that I could be a perfectionist, and really strive to go above and beyond in my work, but challenged me to work on managing my time, and rather than hyper-focusing on things that are lower priority, I should check in more often and step up where I am needed and work on the bigger picture. Great advice and feedback, and I have improved significantly since it was offered."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 13th, 2024
EQ
25. How would your previous coworkers describe you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
First and foremost, it is essential to project yourself as a confident and seasoned professional. Maintaining consistency is crucial, both in your responses and your overall performance in the interview. In cases where the HireVue algorithm detects a discrepancy between a candidate's non-verbal cues and their verbal communication, their body language will be considered as an indicator of their authentic feelings, intentions, and attitudes, potentially highlighting issues such as a lack of self-awareness, limited emotional intelligence, or burnout syndrome. Keep in mind that the hiring manager is your key audience, and their opinion is ultimately what counts.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
What You Need to Know
The varying advice HireVue offers candidates often contradicts itself. such as, "Ensure you are in a quiet room or area, well lit and free of distractions." And, "If you don't have a spot like that, there are technical solutions. Technology like HireVue offers a background blur, so you can blur out anything in the background that might pull the employer's attention away from you."
Recruiters tend to be distracted by a blurred background, which makes them wonder what you are trying to conceal and whether you would be prone to taking shortcuts in your work.
Push yourself a little further and get ready for your interview in advance. Seek out a peaceful area with minimal distractions. In case you're not by yourself, kindly inform others that you're starting to record your interview and request their cooperation in maintaining silence. If you can't do this, just wait for a chance to be by yourself. Don't forget, you have the ability to record your interview at any time and place.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"They'd say that I am knowledgeable and reliable, that I treat everyone with respect and empathy, am a friend to all, and am sincere, kind, courteous, and attentive, and always willing to help out, whether you are a customer or on my team. They'd tell you that they enjoy working with me, and that they consider me a friend. Oh, and they tell you many of my customers know me by name and ask specifically for me."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 13th, 2024
Leadership
26. Talk about a time you showed initiative at work. Describe the situation, your actions, and the outcome.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer is seeking to gauge your work ethic, career aspirations, and your passion for your work. Your response will determine whether you prioritize daily tasks or focus on the bigger picture when defining success. It's obvious to the algorithm when an applicant is being inauthentic or telling them what they think they want to hear. So speak from the heart. This aids in their assessment of your motivations and how well you'll fit into their brand culture, while giving them insight into what motivates you at work. Explain what success looks like for you in your work. Display pride for making a positive impact on your previous or current employer when giving your answer. Articulating how you evaluate success in your interview will increase your chances of advancing through the interview process.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
What You Need to Know
When addressing your problem-solving capabilities, strive to appear as a skilled professional who excels at thinking on their feet. Present yourself as confident and at ease. Demonstrating that going the extra mile is your default standard. Remember to stay natural and speak with friendly confidence, making sure to maintain eye contact with the camera. Pay attention to your posture and smile authentically with both your mouth and eyes. Remember to keep your body language open and your tone even and consistent with what you're saying.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"I am very diligent when it comes to proper inventory management. I have a high attention to detail with our receiving manifests, shrinkage, and never cut corners. I also am responsible for our retail stock ledgers, and making sure everything lines up. Since I have taken advantage of the store's downtime to line everything up, our inventory numbers have been the best in the region."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 13th, 2024
Leadership
27. Tell me about your leadership experience.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The purpose of this question is to evaluate your leadership abilities or hesitation to take charge. Some people are natural-born leaders, while others have yet to develop leadership skills. This question aims to assess where you fall on the scale. Take a moment to contemplate your leadership skills or potential. Then make it clear where you are at, and where you hope to go. Consider how your definition of leadership has been shaped by the leaders you admire. Doing so will help you with presenting the best version of yourself that you can be while demonstrating your potential. Take into consideration all aspects of what it means to be a leader, from leading by example, demonstrating excellent communication, empathy, all the way to delivering corrective feedback. This includes even the most difficult aspect of leadership, which, with experience, becomes easier with time.
"At Sherwin-Williams, you have the freedom to define success in a way that's both unique and personal. No matter where you are on your career journey, you have opportunities to build your skills in a way that works best for you and take on new experiences across a variety of roles within our global business. With formal and informal learning, education programs, tuition reimbursement, mentoring and collaboration with your manager, you are empowered to find work that fits your skills, interests and passions. Every job plays a part in our success, so we take time to recognize, celebrate, and reward your contributions and ideas."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
What You Need to Know
Remember, their goal is to help clients differentiate between unqualified candidates and top performers when giving interview advice. As a result, they may give contradictory guidance by alternating between good and poor advice. For example, on one webpage, they recommend finding "a quiet and professional space to perform your interview. This is your time to showcase who you are and what you can add to an organization. Prepare, take a deep breath, and be yourself." But another webpage suggests, "If your dog barks or kid runs across the screen-relax. It's okay. Just relax. Your employer will understand, and if they don't, perhaps it's not the right culture fit for you. And that's okay."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"I have been told I have a lot of leadership potential, and any time we onboard a new employee, I'm asked to mentor them to get them oriented and up to speed. I frequently am tasked with training, stay informed, and others on my team are always coming to me for advice, inside knowledge, or help. I frequently set the pace and steer the morale."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 13th, 2024
Performance Based
28. What would you hope to accomplish in your first 90 days on the job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Wanting to set goals that align with the company's needs as outlined in the job posting or description is completely normal. Show your initiative by thoroughly grasping Sherwin Williams' employee expectations, onboarding process, and daily job duties. Familiarize yourself with their systems and processes, inquire, and adapt. Develop a 90-day career plan that allows you to navigate a new work environment and effectively introduce yourself and your work style to your new teams. Show the interviewer that you can work proactively with the teams you'd be introduced to, as well as your vendors and regular customers.
During the first 90 days, a perfect candidate should focus on establishing connections, inquiring, and understanding not only the job tasks but also the underlying reasons behind them. Making an impact won't be possible without that valuable information. To gain the trust of your teams and establish lasting relationships, actively listen and learn from them, contribute your insights, and work towards making a positive impact as you move forward together.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
What You Need to Know
Provide genuine answers and draw upon personal experiences where you excelled. HireVue's assessment model will analyze both your choice of words and the content of your response, as well as your verbal and nonverbal cues. Signs of discomfort could be misinterpreted as signs of dishonesty, for instance. Some cues include restlessness, shifting position, leaning back from the computer, narrowing eyes, or avoiding eye contact. To make a good impression in your interview, keep a relaxed and confident posture. Don't rush, go at your own pace.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"I would ask lots of questions, do everything I could to learn all our systems and processes, and get up to speed. I would build strong relationships with my teams, our vendors, and our customers. And, I would learn everything I could to make the jobs of my leaders easier, and be able to make informed decisions when faced with complicated time-sensitive issues. In other words, I'd do all I could to be a clutch player who could be a key trusted and reliable member of the team."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 13th, 2024
Performance Based
29. Tell us about a time you went above and beyond?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The objective of this question is to assess what giving your best looks like to you and your propensity to exceed expectations. Your response will give them insights into your work standards and what they can expect from you on a daily basis. This will also assist them in understanding your professional objectives and what motivates you. These will enable them to compare you to the other applicants in the interview pool.
Another of Sherwin Williams' values is "Performance. Our performance achieves desired results and sets an example for others is encouraged, recognized and rewarded. We set high expectations - and take the time to measure and reward achievement." Highlight your personal accomplishments, and where you've over-performed. Demonstrate your ability to think creatively and innovate. Once you've showcased your example, outline where you hope to overachieve next.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
What You Need to Know
HireVue's "models focus on skills, behaviors, and competencies specific to the job." With this question, HireVue would describe a novice as someone who is "disorganized and unable to pay the attention required to deliver accurate and high-quality work." Someone who has an intermediate skill level they would describe as "attentive, meticulous, and careful in how they operate, delivering a thorough and high-quality job." And, they would classify someone as an expert who is "aware of other's needs and feelings, is attentive, meticulous, and careful in how they operate, delivering a thorough and high-quality job, and evaluates the impact of their work to improve future delivery." Keep these points in mind when selecting an example to share and presenting yourself as a candidate.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"Stepping up and going above and beyond is automatic for me. This is part of why I am considered such a dependable member of the team. Just a few days ago, my manager called out sick with the flu and before they could ask, I offered to switch shifts so that I could back up the other supervisor who was going to be on duty. This meant having split days off, which wasn't ideal. I do prefer two days off in a row, but the team needed me, so I agreed."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 13th, 2024
Teamwork
30. Tell me about the last time you led the efforts of your team. What was the situation? What were the results of your actions?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Cultural fit is a major consideration, especially considering how paramount teamwork and service are to Sherwin Williams' core values. So, this question is designed to gauge how aligned your approach and philosophy are with theirs. This question assesses your understanding of teamwork, collaboration, and whether you identify as more of an extrovert, ambivert, or introvert. The right attitude is crucial for setting the pace and boosting morale in a team environment, so maintain a positive attitude while responding. Project a positive demeanor. Being at your best means feeling confident, proud, and finding joy in your work.
"Join a team where you will learn skills that will help you master our business and build acumen to take you even further in your professional journey. We provide inclusive experiences and educational resources to jumpstart your career and take ownership of your future. Our purpose, to color and protect what matters, unites our employees around the world, inspiring them to make a difference together as one team. With the skills you'll gain in our management and sales training programs, we're giving you all the tools you need to Create Your Possible."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 10th, 2024
What You Need to Know
HireVue's assessment models evaluate a candidate's composure, compassion, dependability, adaptability, willingness to learn, drive for results, initiative, and commitment to safety and compliance. Additionally, their assessment models evaluate a candidate's ability to collaborate with others. It evaluates their aptitude for fostering and cultivating relationships.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
How to Answer
HireVue considers a candidate's personality, work style, and ethics when evaluating them, categorizing them based on the "big five personality traits" - openness to experience, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and emotional stability. Emotional stability and conscientiousness are the main focus of this question. The main question is whether stress becomes an obstacle to your productivity and team relations when dealing with difficult situations, or if you can effectively handle stress and maintain your drive to deliver outcomes.
Boost your proficiency rating by paying attention to nonverbal cues that reveal stress. Project a sense of tranquility and certainty, with a calm visage and receptive stance. Explain how you have successfully managed difficult circumstances in the past and your belief in your ability to do the same in the future. Detail your approach. Showcase your ability to objectify most situations and react decisively. Explain your systematic approach and your ability to stay positive while boosting team morale.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 9th, 2024
Answer Example
"I work well with a wide variety of personalities; however, I work best with those who are honest and hardworking. Recently, I worked with someone who was competing for a leadership position, and although our personalities are starkly different, this person has admirable values. However, their approach to leadership is starkly different from my own and doesn't always resonate with our crew. So, working alongside this person, I continually identified ways in which I could help them manage the crew, and which I've found always makes a project run smoother. So I continually offered them tips and methods for navigating the personalities of each member of the crew, and after a while, they started anticipating the needs of their team, and their interpersonal skills advanced dramatically. So, I was more of a guiding influence on the outcome of leading the team. Situationally mentoring the mentor, so-to-speak."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 13th, 2024